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The Story Behind KeepMe Running Lord

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“Keep Me Running Lord (KMRL)” was born out of a prayer spoken during a time of struggle, faith, and perseverance. It is the life story and testimony of Elbert Bo Perry, a man whose journey has been shaped by faith, football, pain, redemption, and purpose.

Bo grew up in Groton, Connecticut, in a loving, faith-filled home with parents who had a deep belief in God. Church was a constant part of his life, even when he didn’t fully understand what prayer meant. Looking back, he believes God always knew what was in his heart, especially his desire to play football.

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From a young age, football became more than just a sport for Bo. Running, hitting, and competing brought him joy, discipline, and a sense of identity. He loved the game so much that he even slept with his football. That passion guided him through youth leagues and into high school, where he played football and ran track at Fitch High School in Groton. Despite missing most of his junior year due to injury, Bo’s dedication and performance eventually earned him induction into the school’s Hall of Fame for football and track.

Bo continued his football career at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona. During his college years, injuries resurfaced, culminating in major knee surgery that nearly ended his career. Doctors advised him not to consider playing football again. Devastated, Bo called his mother in tears. Her words were simple yet powerful: trust God, and everything will be okay. Clinging to that faith, Bo committed himself to intensive rehabilitation. After sitting out for a season, he was cleared to return to the field. By the end of that season, he performed at a high level and was named an honorable mention running back, a comeback he attributes entirely to God’s grace.

Throughout his football journey, pain and injuries were constant companions. During those challenging moments, Bo’s prayer became personal and vocal: “Keep me running, Lord.” This prayer would later form the foundation of everything KMRL represents.

After college, Bo signed with the USFL’s Arizona Outlaws. Though this opportunity was a blessing, years of physical wear and tear made it clear that his body could no longer endure the punishment of the game. His professional career ended before it truly began. While he had experienced success in both high school and college football, the loss of the game left him struggling to find his identity.

Without football, Bo felt a profound void. Nothing in life seemed to replace the sense of purpose and fulfillment the sport had provided him. In an attempt to numb the pain and disappointment, he turned to substance use, which eventually led to addiction. Outwardly, he wore a mask of confidence, but inwardly, he battled shame, failure, and brokenness. His relationship with God suffered, yet he never stopped crying out for help.

Even in his lowest moments, Bo continued to seek God. Though he stumbled many times, he never stopped attempting to rise again and live the life God intended for him.

A turning point came when Bo was introduced to Pastor John Gomes and the Covenant Temple Church in Quaker Hill, Connecticut. For over 20 years, Pastor John has spoken life, truth, and encouragement into Bo’s life, helping him understand God’s love, grace, and power to restore. Through faith, obedience, and spiritual growth, Bo experienced true transformation.

Today, Bo is learning to walk in victory, not because of his own strength, but because God has never stopped hearing his prayers. Keep Me Running Lord was created to share that message of hope with others.

Every KMRL design represents a moment, a lesson, or a prayer from various seasons of Bo’s life. Each shirt carries a spiritual message intended to encourage perseverance, faith, and trust in God. KMRL serves as a reminder that pain does not define you, setbacks do not disqualify you, and quitting is never the answer.

This brand exists for anyone running through life’s challenges and needing a reminder to keep going.